The twelfth Foundation Stone of New Jerusalem.

Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is best known for its rich, violet-purple hue. The color can vary in intensity from a pale, almost pinkish (mauve) color to a dark purplish violet. It is thought that the color of the stone comes from small amounts of iron in the quartz. Amethyst is the third stone in the third row of the High Priest’s breastplate (Ex. 28:19) and it is one of the few stones in which experts agree as to the correctness of the name. The hebrew word for amethyst, ‘ahlamah’, literally means ‘dream stone’, and it was thought that it induced pleasant dreams. The Greek name for the stone, ‘amethustos’ from which we get ‘amethyst’, literally means ‘not drunken’ and it was believed that the gem guarded one against intoxication. Beautifully carved and engraved amethyst goblets, vases, charms and miniatures have been found in excavations. Historically amethyst has been highly valued as a precious stone for the uniqueness of its color, as there are few purple gemstones. Abundant supplies of this violet to purple variety of crystalline quartz were available from both Arabia and Syria. Purple has long been considered a royal color so it is not surprising that Amethyst has been so much in demand during history. Fine Amethysts are featured in the British Crown Jewels and were also a favorite of Catherine the Great and Egyptian royalty. Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that Amethyst was able to dissipate evil thoughts and quicken the intelligence.

Folklore claims amethyst helps to calm the mind, heal sickness, and enhance psychic abilities. It is said to help you recognize the truth in yourself and others. It leads to increased intuition and mental flexibility. It brings an increased awareness of our dreams. The purple ray of amethyst is full of serene, peaceful energy that connects with the crown chakra. A powerful and protective stone, amethyst activates spiritual wisdom, opens intuition, and has strong healing and meditative powers.

One of the earliest writers to associate with the apostles the symbolism of the gems given in Revelations is by Andreas, bishop of Caesurae. He gives a brief description of the stones, which is recounted in George F. Kunz's book ‘The Curious Lore of Precious Stones’ (1913). The Amethyst, which shows to the onlooker a fiery aspect, signifies Matthew.